Are There Advantages to Suing in District Justice Courts Rather Than Common Pleas Court?
District Justice Courts are less formal, less expensive and faster than Common Pleas Courts. Also, you will need an attorney in Common Pleas Court. In District Justice Court, an attorney is not required, but it may be advisable to have one present for certain types of cases. Where Can I Sue? If you decide to sue in a District Justice Court, you must decide which District Justice has authority to handle the suit. There are rules which govern where a suit may be filed. The District Justice closes to you can advise you where to file. District Justices are listed in the yellow pages of the phone book under “District Justice” or “Justice of the Peace,” their former designation. How Should I Start the Law Suit? Once you have found the correct office, the next step is to file a complaint on a standard form you can obtain from the District Justice. The form is reasonably easy to fill out. The important items on it are: • your name and address • the name and address of the person or business yo
